Learning STEM skills from resources sector

STEM professionals from the resources and energy sector have visited 12 Queensland primary schools.

As part of the Bright Future STEM program, students aged 9–12 from Moura, Gladstone and Biloela benefited from the expertise of representatives from Anglo American and ConocoPhillips.

The program, which is designed and delivered by the Australian Resources and Energy Employer Association (AREEA), uses a combination of industry role models and hands-on interactive activities to teach students about the range of STEM careers in the resources and energy sector.

“The Bright Future STEM team had a fantastic time in central Queensland last week, joining STEM professionals from Anglo American and ConocoPhillips Australia to engage and inspire schoolkids across Moura, Gladstone and Biloela,” said Tara Diamond, AREEA Director Operations.

“In recent years it has become increasingly important to get the younger generation interested in studying STEM fields. With the resources and energy industry set to experience significant growth in its STEM-based workforce demand, getting the younger generation interested in STEM is a huge priority.

“While there are many STEM initiatives aimed at high school and tertiary, the Bright Future STEM program piques an interest in these subjects from an earlier age. Research shows 9–12 years is a critical age to expose kids to STEM subjects and the real-world careers in which they are applied.

“AREEA thanks the professionals from Anglo American and ConocoPhillips Australia who volunteered their time and all the schools in the region for getting involved and helping spread the STEM message.”

The Bright Future STEM Program is an opportunity for students to meet a range of STEM-skilled role models working in the sector. Emphasis is placed on exposing school children to female role models in the industry, given the low female representation in both STEM studies and the resources industry.

Anglo American’s Australian Head of Corporate Relations & Sustainable Impact, Victoria Somlyay, said the program played an important role in encouraging students to consider careers in STEM.

“STEM-based roles will be critical in the future of mining, as we develop new approaches and technologies in areas like automation, data analytics and sustainable mining. The program is a positive way to showcase some of the career opportunities linked to STEM subjects and encourage the next generation of scientists, engineers and technology specialists,” Somlyay said.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/Myst